german chocolate cake icing recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best german chocolate cake icing recipe

I’ve always been a fan of German chocolate cake icing recipe. It’s a classic dessert that never fails to impress my family and friends. The rich, velvety texture and the deep, caramel-like flavor are simply irresistible.

I first tried this recipe at my aunt’s house when I was a kid, and it’s been a staple in our household ever since. The best part about this recipe is that it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring only a few ingredients and minimal preparation time. My kids love helping me in the kitchen, measuring out the ingredients and mixing the batter together.

And when it comes out of the oven, the aroma of chocolate and coconut is just heavenly. My family loves this recipe for special occasions like birthdays and holidays, but we also enjoy it as a regular treat on weeknights. Plus, it’s a great way to get some extra nutrients into our diet – with the addition of coconut and nuts, it’s a healthier alternative to traditional desserts.

As I mentioned earlier, this recipe is a staple in our household because it’s so versatile – we can serve it as a cake or as individual servings. And let’s be real – who doesn’t love a good excuse to indulge in some delicious chocolate? My kids are always asking for seconds (or even thirds!)

, which is all the proof I need that this recipe is a winner in our household.

German Chocolate Cake Icing

4.5 from 1958 votes

A rich and creamy coconut-pecan frosting that is the signature topping for German chocolate cake. This classic icing is made with evaporated milk, sugar, egg yolks, butter, and vanilla, then loaded with toasted coconut and chopped pecans.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time12 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time22 mins
Servings: 3 cupsCuisine: InternationalCalories: 220 kcal per 2 tbsp

🥘Ingredients

For the Icing

1 cup evaporated milk
1 cup granulated sugar
3 large egg yolks
1/4 cup unsalted butter, cut into pieces
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/3 cups sweetened shredded coconut
1 cup chopped pecans

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup evaporated milk, 1 cup granulated sugar, and 3 large egg yolks.
2Whisk until the egg yolks are fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth.
3Add 1/4 cup unsalted butter cut into pieces to the saucepan.
4Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon or silicone spatula, until the butter melts and the mixture begins to bubble.
5Continue to cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, for about 10 to 12 minutes.
6The icing will thicken and turn a light golden color.
7It is ready when it coats the back of a spoon and leaves a clear trail when you run your finger through it.
8Remove the saucepan from heat.
9Stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1 1/3 cups sweetened shredded coconut, and 1 cup chopped pecans.
10Mix until the coconut and pecans are evenly distributed.
11Let the icing cool for 10 to 15 minutes at room temperature, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to a spreadable consistency.
12Use immediately to frost a cooled German chocolate cake, or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

🔧Equipment

Medium saucepan
Whisk
Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
Measuring cups and spoons
Cutting board and knife (for pecans)
Toaster oven or skillet (for toasting coconut and pecans, optional)

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 220 kcal🧈Total Fat: 14g💛Saturated Fat: 7g❤️Cholesterol: 45mg🧂Sodium: 55mg🌾Total Carbs: 24g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 22g🥩Protein: 3g

📝Notes

For best results, toast the shredded coconut and chopped pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat until lightly golden and fragrant before adding to the icing. This enhances the nutty flavor. If the icing becomes too thick after cooling, reheat gently over low heat, stirring constantly, until it softens.

Watch Video Of How German Chocolate Cake Icing Works

This German chocolate cake icing recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just want to treat your family to something special.

We love serving it at family gatherings because it’s easy to make ahead of time and can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator or frozen for up to 2 months.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About German Chocolate Cake Icing

1. What is German chocolate cake icing made of?

German chocolate cake icing is made with sweetened condensed milk, unsweetened cocoa powder, butter or margarine, vanilla extract, salt, eggs, and sometimes chopped nuts or shredded coconut for added texture.

2. How do I store leftover German chocolate cake icing?

You can store leftover German chocolate cake icing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 2 months.

3. Can I make German chocolate cake icing ahead of time?

Yes, you can make German chocolate cake icing ahead of time by preparing the ingredients and storing them in separate containers until you’re ready to assemble and bake the cakes.

4. How do I reheat leftover German chocolate cake icing?

To reheat leftover German chocolate cake icing, simply place it in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or warm it up in a saucepan over low heat until warmed through.

5. Can I use low-fat milk instead of sweetened condensed milk?

No, you should not use low-fat milk instead of sweetened condensed milk because it will affect the texture and flavor of the icing.

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